The spotted estuary smooth-hound or rig (Mustelus lenticulatus) is a houndshark of the family Triakidae, found on the continental shelves and in estuaries around New Zealand. It is closely related to the gummy shark (Mustelus antarcticus) of Australia.

The rig shark (Mustelus lenticulatus), an intriguing marine creature also known as the spotted smooth-hound, is a unique and remarkable species of small shark that you can find in the Pāuatahanui Inlet. Rig are fascinating to observe due to their amazing physical characteristics and behaviors.

Rig – Mustelus lenticulatus, has numerous names including smoothhound, gummy shark and spotted dogfish. They are very good fish to eat and reasonably strong fighters. Rig shark is usually sold in the shops as Lemon Fish. This is a prime species used in fish and chip shops.

Mustelus lenticulatus is a non-placental ovoviviparous shark with a gestation period of about 11 months. Young are born at a total length of 30-32 cm from September to December. Copulation, and ovulation of a further set of eggs, rapidly follows parturition.